A health trust’s cancer support team is reaching out further into its community – after a new appointment to the service.
Alison Parsons has joined the Macmillan cancer information service as a cancer support worker.
Part of Alison’s role will involve engaging with the local population and attending outreach events – to offer expert help to those affected by cancer in the community.
This week, Alison visited Marlborough House in Stockton to speak to a women’s support group, along with other health professionals.
Discussions focussed on health behaviours, preventative measures and reflecting on recent bowel cancer and breast cancer awareness sessions.
Alan Chandler, Macmillan information and survivorship manager, said: “We are delighted to have Ali as a member of our fantastic team.
“We not only offer a service from the hospitals, but we are also available to visit groups in our community.
“Part of her role will involve reaching out to our community at events like this. She is offering information and support we have available from the cancer information centre and pointing people in the right direction about how to access this help.
“Ali would like to hear from any local group or organisation who would like a presentation from the cancer information centre to find out more information about how we can help.”
Contact Ali on 01642 383041.
The cancer information centre service is run by trained staff and volunteers. They offer a wide range of information and support around issues including:
- Cancer treatments
- Welfare benefits and financial advice
- Healthy eating
- Exercise
- Stopping smoking
- Signposting to other support groups in the area